“Were you born in a barn?” This reproach was traditionally leveled at someone who left a door or a window open or was guilty of some other inappropriate or negligent behavior. Thanks to the rise of barndominiums, however, this saying may soon lose some of its clout. Barndominiums are a social media sensation with those …

In June 1894, an ancient virus swept through Rutland County, Vermont, causing 18 deaths and 132 cases of paralysis.[i] This was America’s first large-scale outbreak of polio—a disease that didn’t reach its peak until 1952, with 57,628 illnesses and 3,145 deaths.[ii] While this terrifying epidemic caused widespread fear, researchers and physicians worked diligently to stop …

“Let’s do lunch.” This short, seemingly innocuous invitation can carry a multitude of hidden meanings: Let’s talk about my upcoming project. Let me tell you about the changes in my company. Let’s work together soon. I really don’t want to talk to you right now but want to appear polite. Is it a brush-off, an …

Thor Heyerdahl was an adventurer. After serving as a WWII parachutist, he worked as an anthropologist in South America.[i] Discovering cultural, religious, and oral history similarities between Polynesia and Peru led Heyerdahl to speculate on an ancestral connection between the two—an idea in direct opposition to the prevailing theory that the Polynesians were descended from …

After dominating American popular music in the ’40s and early ’50s, Frank Sinatra faced a number of down years during the onset of the rock ‘n’ roll era. Even though he recorded various hits, in 1969, “My Way” became one of his most enduring and popular recordings. As a song that exemplifies individuality and aspiration, …

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. How many of us have repeated this old aphorism to our children or grandchildren? Yes, apples are a tried-and-true staple of the American diet, but how did the lowly apple become a folklore recipe for good health? History tells us that the connection between apples and good …

Steve Stepp had a plan for success that worked for him. Stepp founded the National Audio Company in 1969. The company was the leading manufacturer of cassette tapes during the 1980s—a period when every popular song was recorded on a cassette tape.[i] Then came the introduction of compact discs—the first nail in the coffin of …

Volcanoes are one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on Earth. Amazing lava displays and dramatic volcanic landscapes provide a fascinating subject for scientists and unique destinations for travelers. Although volcanoes have become synonymous with force and power, that is only one phase of their exceptional “life cycle.” A volcano is “born” when the earth’s …

He wasn’t a singer, an actor or news anchor, but you may have heard his voice. John William “Jack” King was chief of public information at NASA. Much of the world listened to his calm voice count down the historic checklist for Apollo 11—a launch that sent three astronauts to the moon.[i] Twelve, eleven, ten, …

Imagine walking into a local shop on a hot summer day and agonizing over a tantalizing variety of frozen treats. Dying for some chocolate? How about rocky road or double fudge cookies and cream? You might rationalize concerns about your waistline by leaning toward something light and fruity—maybe a lemon-lime or orange sorbet. Suppose you …